Complete Process for COO (Certificate of Origin) Registration in India

Obtaining a Certificate of Origin (COO) is essential for exporters in India to certify that their goods are manufactured or processed in India, making them eligible for preferential tariffs under trade agreements. Below is a step-by-step guide to registering and obtaining a COO in India.

What is a Certificate of Origin (COO)?

A COO is an official document certifying the country of origin of goods being exported. It is required by many countries to determine customs duties and eligibility under trade agreements like India-ASEAN FTA, SAFTA, or GSP (Generalized System of Preferences).

There are two types of COO in India:

1. Non-Preferential COO – For general export purposes (no tariff benefits).

2. Preferential COO – For availing reduced tariffs under trade agreements (e.g., Form A for GSP, India-ASEAN FTA COO).

Step-by-Step Process for COO Registration & Issuance

Step 1: Register with an Approved Agency

To apply for a COO, exporters must be registered with one of the following authorized bodies:

- Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC)

- Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO)

- Regional Trade Promotion Bodies (e.g., EEPC, CHEMEXCIL, etc.)

Registration Requirements:

- GST Registration

- Import Export Code (IEC)

- Company PAN

- Business details (address, contact, nature of business)

Step 2: Submit an Online/Offline Application

- Most agencies now accept online applications through their portals.

- Fill out the COO application form with details like:

- Exporter & Importer details

- Product description & HS Code

- Country of export

- Supporting documents

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Attach the following documents with the application:

1. Commercial Invoice (with value & product details)

2. Packing List (quantity, weight, packaging details)

3. Bill of Lading/Airway Bill (proof of shipment)

4. Manufacturing Declaration (self-declaration or from the producer)

5. GST & IEC copies

6. Any additional documents (if required under specific trade agreements)

Step 4: Verification & Processing

- The issuing agency verifies the documents.

- For Preferential COO, additional scrutiny may be done to ensure compliance with Rules of Origin (e.g., minimum value addition criteria).

Step 5: Payment of Fees

- Fees vary based on the issuing agency (typically ₹200 – ₹1,000 per COO).

- Payment can be made online via UPI, NEFT, or demand draft.

Step 6: Issuance of COO

- Once approved, the COO is issued in hard copy (signed & stamped) or digitally (with QR code).

- The exporter must submit it to customs or the importer for duty benefits.

Processing Time

- 1-3 working days (if documents are complete).

- Urgent processing may be available at extra cost.

Important Notes

✅ Preferential COO requires strict compliance with Rules of Origin (e.g., 35-40% value addition in India).

✅ Some countries accept digital COO, while others require physical copies.

✅ COO must match shipping & invoice details exactly to avoid rejection.